Grades 7 to 10 will take two different core classes each semester, each class taught by a different instructor. They will also receive a 1/2 hour mini class. This model allows us to cover a diversity of topics with a wider pool of teachers.

Structure:
2 – 1 hour core classes each week, service and mini class alternate every other week.

10TH GRADE
1st Semester
Core 1: Jewish Response to Contemporary Social Issues
What does Judaism have to teach us about stem cell research, abortion, homosexuality, birth control, war, death penalty, school violence, tattoos, body piercing, cutting, welfare, poverty, crime, racism, sexual equality, hate crimes, and other compelling issues facing teens today.

Core 2 Tough Questions Jews Ask
For example:

• Why Be Jewish?
• Who Believes in God Anymore?
• Do I Have to Go to Services?
• Why Do People Hate Jews?
• What’s the Messiah?
• Why Is It So Important to Marry Someone Jewish?
• If We Live Here, Why Is Israel So Important?
• Orthodox, Conservative, Reform—Why Can’t I Just be Jewish?

Mini Class: Current Events

2nd Semester
Core 1: What Do Jews Believe/What Do You Believe?
A confirmation curriculum focusing on what Jews believe about the nature of God, prayer, death, and the Messianic era, based on Maimonides 13 Principles of Faith.

Core 2: Jewish Response to Contemporary Social Issues/Confirmation Preparation
See description from first semester. (above)

Mini Class: Current Events

Parent Involvement:
Parents are expected to insure their child attends Religious School regularly and on time. In addition, parents will be responsible for reading all materials sent home and reinforcing the lessons learned during Religious School. Parents are expected to read the novels their child is reading and be able to discuss the issues raised with their child. Parents are expected to participate in parent/child learning experiences planned by the teacher and/or Religious School.